Bhandari caste
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This Marathi speaking community is mainly found in Maharashtra. They migrated southward from Rajputana in early 1100 and subsequently spread over different parts of India. Along with Maharashtra, they can be found in significant numbers in Rajasthan, parts of Central India, Gujarat, Goa and even parts of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.
The Community belongs to "Kshatriya" caste and has an ancient history. Sub communities include Kitte, Hetkari, Kshatriya, Thale, Chaudhary, Devkar, Sheshwanshi(shinde) and Morey. They established many kingdoms and established themselves as warriors in many kshatriya kingdoms of that era. Maurya(More) Bhandaris arrived in present day Thane when Maurayas invaded the region. Sheshwanshi Bhandaris arrived with King Bhidmdev[1] who established his base in Mumbai in 13th Century. During his reign he is also supposed to have brought Pathare Prabhus, Palshis, Pachkalshis, Vadvals, Bhois, Agris and Brahmins to Mumbai. Kitte Bhandaris evolved from Kirtik Bhattars (warriors) in the konkan region. Ratan Singh, the hindu king of Ahmedabad was from this community. Bhandaris established smaller kingdoms around present day Mumbai. Bhandari community was actively involved in formation of Maratha empire under Shivaji Maharaj. Haraji Bhatkar, Maynaik Hatkar, Santaji Bole, Raiji Gadde, Bapuji Naik were some of the famous warriors of the era. Bhandaris were instrumental in building the Maratha navy along with the agris. Raut, Bhatkars, Jaokar, Sarang were involved in conflicts with Siddhi Jauhar and Portuguese.
[edit] Bhandaris in Mumbai
Bhandaris are one of the oldest communities in Mumbai, and have played a significant role in its development. The first printing press in Mumbai was set up by a Bhandari gentleman. Bhandari Militia was the first police establishment in Mumbai. Significant populations of Bhandaris can still be found in Mumbai. Kitte Bhandari Ekyawardak Mandal was established in 1890 to unite the community and work for its welfare. It has its headquarters at Dadar, Mumbai.
The Bhandari community accepted Sree Narayana Guru as their spiritual and community leader in 2006 during Sivagiri Pilgrimage and officially declared by All-India Bhandari Samaj Mahamandalam president Navinchandra Bandi Vadekar. Link[2]. Link [3]
